PicsArt Monthly PicsArt Monthly Magazine December Issue 2014 | Page 12

Tipping is traditionally considered a voluntary act where an extra amount of money is gifted to someone who does his/ her job well. In many places it has become almost obligatory. Conservative personalities object to rewarding people for doing their jobs. But you can put yourself into untenable situations if you do not “play the game”. On the other side of the coin, there are a few remaining cultures that discourage tipping. It can be awkward if you are not aware. Know before you go. To get the best pictures, I hire myriads of drivers, guides, translators and assistants. And many people deserve being paid for “insinuating” myself into their lives and making unusual requests. This can amount to just a few coins but many interactions require substantial payments. Negotiations may end in offering a “tip” or promise to send prints of my images. TIPPING 12 | PicsArt Monthly In some societies most confrontation is a negotiation. Often it is cultural imperative. You are expected to haggle. It may be alien at first but it can become a habit. To not engage means to pay exorbitant prices for merchandise and to lose face. Haggling is an acquired skill.